BECK 999: The Ultimate Horsehide Motorcycle Jacket for Serious Riders

Let’s talk about what really sets the BECK 999 apart: horsehide leather.

Horsehide isn’t your average cowhide. It’s:

Phil Hawk gearing up on the BECK 999, showcasing his signature style and passion for riding.

• Denser and more abrasion-resistant

• Naturally water-repellent

• Ages beautifully with a deep, rich patina

• Stiff at first but molds to your body over time

What does that mean for riders? Simply put, it lasts longer, protects better, and looks cooler with every mile.

Think of it like a cast iron skillet—tough at first, but once it breaks in, nothing else compares.

🧵 Built Like a Tank, Styled Like a Legend

The construction on the BECK 999 is just as impressive as the material:

• Heavy-duty talon zippers

• Riveted stress points

• Snap-down lapels and collar

• Functional chest and hand pockets

• Action back for freedom of movement on the bike

This isn't fashion-forward fluff—it’s built for riders. Every element is meant to serve you on the road, not just off it.

⚡ Vintage Vibes With Modern Edge

Originally made by the Joseph Buegeleisen Company (J.B. BECK) in Detroit, the 999 was one of the first jackets tailored specifically for motorcyclists—not just borrowed from aviation or military surplus.

The cut is slightly shorter to sit above the hips (so it doesn't bunch up on your seat), and the arms are pre-curved for a natural riding position.

It’s got that 1950s bad-boy silhouette with all the toughness of a modern-day battle jacket. Legendary USA is the current manufacturer and exclusive owner of the TradeMark.

🧊 Cool Under Pressure: Weather-Ready Horsehide

Rainy day? Windy highway? The BECK 999 doesn’t flinch.

Horsehide naturally repels water better than most other leathers. While it’s not 100% waterproof, it won’t soak up rain like a sponge—and it dries without getting brittle or losing shape.

Plus, the lining options (often wool or quilted) make it surprisingly cozy in colder months. Riders have reported using it from early spring to late fall without breaking a sweat—or freezing.

💎 Who Wears the BECK 999?

This isn’t just a jacket for collectors and café cruisers—it’s worn by:

• Hardcore V-twin riders

• Vintage BMW enthusiasts

• Custom builders and wrench junkies

• Urban commuters who want gear that doubles as streetwear

• Hollywood stylists and musicians who crave authentic Americana

It’s the kind of jacket that doesn’t scream “look at me”—but you know it when you see it.

🛠️ How It Compares to Other Leather Jackets

Let’s size it up against other popular riding leathers:

Feature	BECK 999 Horsehide	Cowhide Jackets	Synthetic Jackets
Durability	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐
Abrasion Resistance	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐
Water Resistance	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Style + Heritage	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐	⭐
Break-in Time	Long but worth it	Medium	Minimal
Longevity	20+ years	5–10 years	2–5 years

🏁 Final Verdict: Why the BECK 999 Is Worth Every Penny

Sure, the BECK 999 isn’t cheap. But let’s be real—you don’t buy this jacket as a trendy accessory. You buy it because:

• You want real protection on the bike

• You appreciate heritage craftsmanship

• You value gear that gets better with age

• You want something that lasts a lifetime (or two)

This is the kind of jacket you pass down—not toss in a closet.

FAQ – Everything You Want to Know About the BECK 999

Q: Is the BECK 999 still being made today? A: Yes! Brands like Lost Worlds, Schott NYC (limited editions), and Vanson have reproduced licensed or faithful replicas of the original BECK 999 using horsehide.

Q: Is horsehide better than cowhide?A: For abrasion resistance, water repellency, and long-term aging—yes. Though it's stiffer at first, it pays off big time in durability and comfort.

Q: How do I break in horsehide?A: Wear it. A lot. Avoid over-conditioning. Let your body heat and movement soften it naturally. It'll shape to you like a second skin over time.